Newellton experienced a full day of generosity as two separate groups stepped forward to sup‑port residents during the village’s ongoing water‑system challenges on Feb. 7.
What began as a morn‑ing of service continued into a strong afternoon of community partnership, making the day a pow‑erful reminder of what happens when people come together.
The day started at the Newellton Housing Authority on Verona Street, where Alpha Connection Youth and Family Services hosted a free water giveaway under the supervision of Alma McMillian. By 11 a.m., all 500 cases had been distrib‑uted to the many residents who arrived early and in steady numbers. Alpha Connection representa‑tive Barron Wilson shared the heart behind the effort, noting that every commu‑nity deserves a win and no family should be left with‑out water. What unfolded that morning was more than a distribution — it was neighbors helping neighbors, families sup‑porting one another and a town showing its resilience and pride.
That spirit carried into the afternoon as Walmart on Front Street in Winnsboro delivered a major contribution to Newellton’s residents. Two semi‑trucks filled with pallets of bottled water arrived at the old firehouse building, where grateful families picked up cases throughout the day. Walmart associates joined local volunteers on the ground, working side by side to ensure the donation reached as many households as possible.
Newellton resident Kelly Gossett expressed the community’s appreciation, extending sincere gratitude to Walmart for its generous donation and to the associates who came in person to help distribute water. Their hands-on support made a meaningful difference during a time of real need.
The Village of Newellton also recognizes the many volunteers whose dedication kept the last-minute distribution running smoothly: Chad and Kelly Gossett, Walker Head, Rob Burnside, Frankie Burnside, Heath and Kylie Herring, Vance Herring, Walker McDonald, Alderman Richard Harris, Clayton Head, Karney Thomas, and Richard Dunmore. Special thanks go to the Walmart team members who assisted on site: Store manager Chantel Cherry, Paula Staple-Fairley, Catherine Reed, Wannekia Island, and Javandalyn Richard. Appreciation is also extended to the Winnsboro Walmart for its continued support.
From Alpha Connection’s early-morning outreach to Walmart’s large-scale afternoon delivery, Feb. 7 became a day defined by teamwork, generosity, and community pride. When the water stops, Newellton steps up — and on this day, so did every partner who stood with them.
